OxyContin Contraindications

There are times when the prescription painkiller OxyContin is contraindicated for people who have certain conditions. This means they should not take it because of significant health risks. OxyContin is a powerful opioid used to manage moderate to severe pain that is around the clock and expected to last for a significant amount of time.

OxyContin contains oxycodone, a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. People who are allergic to oxycodone or have had a known reaction to a product containing it should not take OxyContin. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, difficult breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.

Conditions For Which OxyContin is Contraindicated

OxyContin is indicated for pain management. To be contraindicated means the medication is not meant for certain people. In addition to those who are allergic, people who have significant respiratory depression should not take this drug.

OxyContin is also contraindicated in people who have acute or severe bronchial asthma or hypercarbia. This is a condition marked by excess carbon dioxide in the blood. This can be caused by hypoventilation, lung disease or diminished consciousness. Symptoms of this condition include flushed skin, full pulse, muscle twitching, reduced neural activity, elevated blood pressure, headache, confusion and lethargy, disorientation and convulsions.

The contraindication extends to people who have or are expected of having paralytic ileus, or intestinal obstruction. Many things, including narcotic medications, can cause this partial or complete blockage of the bowels. OxyContin and other opioids can exacerbate this problem because constipation is a common side effect.